This topic is about dealing with a noticeable bulge around a stoma that has been in place for 12 years. The person with the ostomy has observed that the stoma now protrudes slightly, and there is a bulge underneath about the size of half a grapefruit. They are seeking advice on how to make this bulge less noticeable.

Here are some helpful suggestions:

1. It might be a parastomal hernia. It's a good idea to have the area checked by a stoma nurse or surgeon to confirm this.

2. Consider your choice of ostomy appliances and basic compression:
- Switching to convex ostomy pouches can help. These pouches, along with an elastic belt that hooks onto the flange, can gently pull the stoma and surrounding tissue inward.
- A simple home remedy is to cut the waistband from old leggings and use it as a soft compression sleeve over the pouch.

3. Look into specialized hernia support:
- A custom-made hernia belt, like the NU-HOPE Hernia/Support Belt, is designed to flatten and support parastomal bulges, which might be beneficial.